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Torey Krug has opened some eyes around the NHL with his play during the playoffs, but Ray Bourque isn’t too surprised. After all, he has been keeping an eye on the young defenseman for a while.

As explained by The Eagle-Tribune, the legendary Bruins defenseman has become a mentor of sorts to Krug. Bourque has shown a willingness to share a tip or two with the youngster — even going so far as to send the occasional text message.

“I just smile when I look at my phone and see his name,” said Krug. “He’s been amazing, a big help to me, offering little tips or nice messages. I mean, it’s Ray Bourque. The guy was my idol growing up.”

The two blueliners got to know each other this past season while Krug was playing for the Providence Bruins. There, he shared the ice with Chris Bourque, Ray’s son, and struck up a friendship that translated into Krug crashing a family dinner.

“It was unbelievable,” said Krug. “Chris and I get along real well. But for them to invite me out was really special. It meant a lot to me.”

The elder Bourque, however, was impressed with Krug even before they sat down for a meal.

“I remember seeing him that first game [with Boston],” Bourque said of Krug’s first two pro games with the B’s. “I liked everything I saw. I like his shot. I liked his speed. I liked the way he saw the ice. I liked the way he battled.

“But what I really liked was his decisiveness. Torey made quick decisions and most of them were good. For a young player, it was pretty impressive.”

Boston fans will certainly be hoping the youngster continues his impressive play for the duration of this postseason.